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>> Pictures posted! << Lumapower Avenger GX review

This is for submission into the reviews section

Lumapower Avenger GX review

Here is the review of the new Lumapower Avenger GX. The original Avenger had promise, being the only available multimode AAA with clicky, but it suffered from some design problems when using varying lengths of 10440/AAA batteries and was a bit large for an AAA edc (see my review of the original Avenger for more information). The new Avenger GX is a nice update and delivers on the promise seen in the original in a more compact package.

Ricky at Lumapower sent me a review sample of this latest release. I’ll use my typical edc criteria to see how this light stacks up!

Specs and Information

Alright, the Avenger is a multi-mode AAA light that has 3 levels, selected by the forward clicky (or the included twisty tailcap).

The specifications (as quoted from Lumapower) are as follows:

LED emitter: CREE XP-E R2

Input voltage range : 0.9V – 3.3V (10440 is not compatible)

Convertible design with both clicky and twisty style tailcaps included

The included accessory kit is quite impressive. The many extras allow for some pretty flexible carry options:

clip (bezel up and down carry)

keychain

wrist lanyard

clothing clip

Including both a forward clicky and the compact twisty tailcap is also a great bonus.

Battery availability and compatibilty

The GX is no longer compatible with 10440 Lithium Ion cells as its output is optimized for use with standard AAA batteries. This will disappoint those looking for maximum output at all costs, but is quite a sensible, practical choice.

I don’t believe in using 10440 batteries in lights not designed for their voltage. Also when using lithium Ion cells, I prefer a light that has built in protection circuits to preserve the cells (10440 cells are too small to fit protection circuits). Most circuits give up a bit in performance on standard batteries when designed to handle the higher voltage of lithium ion batteries, so it makes sense to maximize performance on standard cells.

Performance with nimh rechargeable batteries is impressive, and the light is still acceptable on the lower power modes when using alkalines. Keep in mind that alkalines do not provide good, long running performance with high power led lights.

Battery availability should not be a problem with this light.

Good interface

The GX uses the now familiar 3 mode interface from Lumapower. The mode sequence is now low-medium-high, which seems to be a more sensible sequence for edc lights.

There are no strobe or SOS modes, so the interface is simple, and no nonsense.

The mode memory locks in at 1 second. This interface is easy to use, but is not ideal for rapid signaling since the light must be on for 1 second for it to retain its setting. In any case, I found it to be practical and easy to use.

The light, like all the recent Lumapowers, has a forward clicky, and now features anodized threads in the head, which allows for lockout. By simply unscrewing the head you can lock out the light, preventing accidental activation. This is a welcome (and long overdue) feature.

The forward clicky tailcap can be removed and replaced with the twisty tailcap. This cap shortens the overall length of the light and allows it to tailstand for use as a candle. It also provides a firm location for lanyard or split ring attachment.

Using the GX as twisty is simple and intuitive, though some generous lubrication is needed for smooth switching. The switching on my sample was a bit stiff initially but loosened up in use.

I personally preferred to use the GX in clicky configuration, but the twisty setup is very practical for pocket or keychain carry.

I did note an interesting “feature”. The GX has the same thread pitch as Fenix and Liteflux AAA lights. I did some experiments and found the GX could be shortened considerably by using a body tube from a Fenix/Liteflux. The o-ring is exposed so this is not a viable option, but perhaps Lumapower can offer an accessory tube to make the GX even more compact? It would make the light just a bit more pocket able, and only a little bit longer than the popular Fenix L0D/LD01.

Useful levels and good efficiency

Lumapower has adjusted and tuned the levels of the GX for optimal efficiency on standard cells. I found the levels well spaced and useful.

The Avenger has an excellent low mode (about 4 lumens) that is surprisingly useful and gives a nice extended runtime. This is actually almost too bright with dark adapted eyes, but is a great general purpose level.

The maximum level (75 lumens) is impressive with standard cells. Performance is on par with a Fenix L0D/LD01 (rated around 75 lumens also). I did not detect any heat build-up when running on high. The light barely warmed up.

PWM (pulse width modulation) is used for dimming the light. The measured frequency (see reviews by HKJ and Selfbuilt) was around 1.3 Khz. I did not detect any PWM flicker in use, though it can be observed by shaking the light quickly.

Size, ergonomics

As stated in my previous reviews, ergonomics can be a very personal matter. How does the light feel in the hand?

The Avenger has improved knurling; allowing a firm grip and hand-friendly feel, but also being smooth enough to be pocket friendly.

The GX is finished in smooth black hard anodizing, with no finish flaws. A natural finish would hide scratches better during keychain use, but the current finish is well matched and seems durable in use.

I find the forward clicky to be very firm, with a very robust feeling. It latches on predictably, though it may be a bit too firm for some.

Beam, tint quality

The GX uses the new Cree XP-E emitter. The tint is slightly warmer than pure white, with a light yellow tint. I would guess an R2 WH bin. I tend to prefer warmer tints (5A, 5B, 4C) for outdoor use, but this tint was quite pleasant in use and the R2 bin is typically 20-30% more efficient than the typical warm/neutral tint Crees.

The GX uses a smooth reflector, which may provide somewhat more defined hotspot, and more throw, but produces a beam that is disappointingly ringy. A mildly textured reflector would be a preferable.

I found that my light had a emitter that was a bit askew, producing a slightly smeared hotspot in the beam. I tried a few minor adjustments and centering but I think a textured reflector would solve this problem. I may pop in a diffusion film at some point to clean up the beam.

Carry options

The Avenger GX is loaded with carry options!

It comes with 2 clips: one black, and one chrome. I find the black one do be the more attractive option. They are both made of spring steel and seem to have good tension and a pretty sold feel; however I do find that they slide around the light a bit. My solution is to add a couple small o-rings under the clip. This keeps it solidly attached to the light and provides a good lip for those who like to use a cigar grip on their lights. I think a more defined slot on light body and firmer clamping would keep the clip from moving around.

The clip also has a small hole in it for lanyard or split ring use. While this is an advantage (especially since the clicky tailcap lacks a lanyard hole) I would probably not use it.

The twisty tailcap has a lanyard hole. It’s a shame this could not be incorporated onto the click tailcap.

The GX package also includes a lanyard and clothing clip, so overall; there are a lot of included extras. Nice touch.

Upgradabilty

For modding types, the Avenger GX is not glued or potted, so there is easy access to the led and driver. Also a black switch cover is included for those seeking a more subdued look. I have not tried to disassemble the tailcap yet.

Summary

So overall, I’d say Lumapower has made a very nice update to the Avenger. It is a very sensible 3 mode light that fits into a unique market niche.

It’s the only simple, multimode, AAA light with clicky. The fact that it includes a twisty option and many other included extras, just makes the overall package that much better.

Re: Lumapower Avenger GX review, pictures to follow

I was thinking of adding a few comments on the Avenger vs some other lights too, nothing too detailed, just some thoughts since I've owned or tried many comparable lights. Oh well, here goes!

--------------------

How does the Avenger stack up against other lights such as the Fenix L0D, LD01 SS, Liteflux LF2, LF2XT, Arc mania Extreme 3, Streamlight microstream etc.

The Avenger has very little direct competition. There is no other multi-mode, non-programmable, AAA light with forward clicky that I know of.

The LF2XT is a nice light, but may intimidate some people with the programming etc. I have mine in compact user interface for now because I have not gotten around to programming it. It is fine in that mode though. It feels a bit fragile, but I have not seen any problems with it. It's also loaded with many extra features.

The classic L0D is nice but has very noticable PWM and some may not like the interface or the strobe/SOS modes. The low mode could be lower.

The LD01 is an improvement in pwm and has removed the flashing modes but the low mode is now far too close to medium and high. Runtime is too short on low.

The leatherman Serac 2 is basically a Fenix L0D with the medium mode and flashing modes removed, and a reverse clicky added. Nice clip, but you still have very noticable PWM on low. It's a bit slippery since it lacks any real knurling.

THe LF2/Arcmania Extreme 3 variants are great when used as programmable 2 mode lights. Jumping around other modes and programming can be annoying and frustrating at times, but when used as simple 2 mode lights they are very functional. The overdischarge protection and other features are nice.

The microstream is a nice budget choice but I find the clicky hard to use (stiff, with rather poor latching) and the tint is too cool for my tastes. It is also a 1 mode light so not a direct competitor.

Re: Lumapower Avenger GX review, pictures to follow

Originally Posted by gunga

I did note an interesting “feature”. The GX has the same thread pitch as Fenix and Liteflux AAA lights. I did some experiments and found the GX could be shortened considerably by using a body tube from a Fenix/Liteflux. The o-ring is exposed so this is not a viable option, but perhaps Lumapower can offer an accessory tube to make the GX even more compact? It would make the light just a bit more pocket able, and only a little bit longer than the popular Fenix L0D/LD01.

Interesting observation gunga ... I hadn't thought to try that.

And good discussion of the relative strengths and weaknesses compared to other lights.

Re: Lumapower Avenger GX review, pictures to follow

Kudos gunga, for the depth and width of this fine review including the comparos to other 1AAA lights and the coming of age of another fine reviewer. I see it as complementary to Selfbuilt's great reviews rather than a competitive or comparative review but enhancing overall. It reads like you were reviewing my Avenger GX. And the great one paid a compliment so what's not to like?
If everyone at least gave their impressions of whatever new lights they acquired we would all be much wiser and richer in all ways.

Re: >> Pictures posted! << Lumapower Avenger GX review

I have a question for gunga or anyone else who has had a chance to use and compare the LiteFlux LF2XT and the LumaPower Avenger GX.

For my family, I think the LF2XT would have several advantages over the Avenger GX.
- selfbuilt commented in his review (link) that "Clicky feel is fairly stiff"
- for my family I think the memory mode of the Avenger GX would be a nuisance
- and I think my family would derive more enjoyment from the soft click of the LF2XT's switch and the ability to ramp up/down

But I'm concerned by the outdoor beamshots (link) of the LF2XT and the Avenger GX. It appears that in high mode with an NiMH battery that the Avenger GX has a more pleasing and more natural illumination. By comparison the LF2XT makes the grass look burnt and dried out.

If the illumination LF2XT is going to make the outdoors look worse or unnatural, then I wonder if my family should buy the Avenger GX even though the LF2XT otherwise seems like it would be better suited for my family.

This is the difference between a cold (GX) and a warm (LF2XT) beam, the cold beam has a low contents of red light and brown colors does not show up as well.
Outdoor it is usual the warm (LF2XT) that has the best color rendering, i.e. the grass has some brownish seeds.

Note: If you want to see other pictures (i.e. with other lights) of the grass, check my website, most of my beamshots are done there.